Effective communication between consumers who are deaf and health care providers is essential. When the consumers and health care providers do not share a common language, a qualified sign language interpreter can facilitate communication. A consumer who is deaf could be the patient, a relative or companion who is involved in the patient’s health care. Interpreters are typically used when:
  • Taking a patient’s medical history
  • Giving diagnoses
  • Performing medical procedures
  • Explaining treatment planning
  • Explaining medicine prescription and regimen
  • Providing patient education or counseling
  • Describing discharge and follow up plans
  • Admitting to emergency departments/urgent care

Using a family member or untrained hospital staff who knows sign, can lead to many problems and is not recommended. Interpreters who work in medical situations through Sign Language Connection have been trained, are protected with appropriate insurances, and are ready to provide professional, confidential services. Interpreters are bound by HIPAA laws as part of the RID Professional Code of Conduct.

Please read the following link to the RID standard practice paper regarding the use of interpreters in Medical situations

Link Here
 
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